The Importance of Oil Change on a Maserati

Owning a Maserati is a statement of refined taste, superior performance, and Italian engineering excellence. Whether you're behind the wheel of a Levante, Ghibli, or GranTurismo, your vehicle requires meticulous maintenance to uphold its high-performance capabilities. One of the most fundamental yet essential aspects of maintenance is the regular oil change.

Ignoring or delaying oil changes can lead to engine inefficiency, increased wear, and costly repairs. In this article, we’ll dive deep into why regular oil changes are crucial for your Maserati, how they contribute to performance, and what happens if they are neglected.

Understanding the Role of Engine Oil in a Maserati

A Maserati engine is a finely tuned machine built for precision, power, and speed. Unlike conventional cars, Maseratis require high-performance synthetic oil that can withstand extreme temperatures and high RPMs. Engine oil has several critical functions:

1. Lubrication – Reduces friction between moving parts, preventing wear and tear.
2. Cooling – Helps dissipate heat generated by high-speed engine operations.
3. Cleaning – Removes dirt, debris, and microscopic metal particles from the engine.
4. Sealing – Enhances the sealing of piston rings, optimizing compression.
5. Corrosion Protection – Prevents oxidation and rust from forming inside the engine.

Over time, engine oil breaks down due to heat, contamination, and continuous use, making it less effective. This is why timely oil changes are essential to maintain your Maserati’s performance.

What Happens If You Skip an Oil Change?

Neglecting oil changes in a Maserati can have severe consequences, given the complexity and high-performance nature of its engine. Here’s what happens when you don’t change the oil:

• Increased Friction & Wear – Dirty or degraded oil loses its lubricating properties, leading to metal-on-metal contact inside the engine. This causes excessive wear on vital components like pistons and camshafts.
• Overheating – Without fresh oil to absorb and dissipate heat, your engine may run hotter than normal, risking catastrophic failure.
• Loss of Performance – Old, sludgy oil makes the engine work harder, reducing throttle response, acceleration, and overall efficiency.
• Higher Fuel Consumption – Poor lubrication increases internal resistance, making the engine burn more fuel than necessary.
• Expensive Repairs – Over time, skipping oil changes can cause severe engine damage that requires costly rebuilds or replacements.

To protect your investment and ensure peak performance, staying on top of oil maintenance is non-negotiable.

How Often Should a Maserati Get an Oil Change?

Maserati vehicles have specific service intervals, but the ideal oil change frequency depends on your driving habits and environmental conditions.

General Guidelines:

• Normal Driving: Change the oil every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or once a year.
• Performance & Sport Driving: If you drive aggressively, an oil change every 5,000 miles is recommended.
• Short Trips & Stop-and-Go Traffic: Frequent short trips can cause oil to degrade faster. Change it every 6,000 miles.

Always check your owner’s manual for the exact recommendation for your Maserati model.

Signs Your Maserati Needs an Oil Change

Even if you follow a strict maintenance schedule, certain warning signs indicate your Maserati needs an oil change sooner rather than later:

• Rough Engine Idle – If your engine sounds rough or vibrates more than usual, it may be due to old, ineffective oil.
• Reduced Acceleration – A sluggish response when pressing the gas pedal can mean the engine is struggling due to degraded oil.
• Burning Smell from Engine Bay – Overheated oil emits a distinct burnt smell, signaling it’s time for a change.
• Excessive Exhaust Smoke – While Maseratis may produce a small amount of vapor, dark smoke from the exhaust is a sign of oil-related issues.
• Dashboard Oil Warning Light – If the oil pressure or check engine light turns on, don’t ignore it—schedule an oil change immediately.

Choosing the Right Oil for a Maserati

Maserati engines demand high-quality synthetic oil designed to handle extreme performance conditions. Using the wrong oil can compromise performance and lead to premature engine wear.

Look for oil that:

• Meets Maserati’s manufacturer specifications.
• Provides high-temperature stability for spirited driving.
• Contains detergents and additives to keep the engine clean.
• Offers long-lasting viscosity for superior lubrication.

If you’re unsure, always consult your owner's manual or speak with a professional who understands Maserati vehicles.

A Maserati isn’t just a car—it’s a high-performance machine that requires consistent care. Regular oil changes are a simple yet essential part of keeping your vehicle running smoothly, efficiently, and powerfully.

By following the recommended maintenance schedule, using the correct oil, and paying attention to warning signs, you’ll ensure your Maserati remains in peak condition for years to come.